|
Constipation is difficult or infrequent bowel movements. It is a very common symptom and usually has more than one cause.
What to look for:
- No bowel movement in the past three days
- Bloating of the abdomen
- Pressure or a sense of fullness in the rectum
- Seepage of loose stool
- Rectal pain with a bowel movement
- Vomiting or nausea
What to do:
- Add high fiber foods to diet, such as whole grain cereals or bread, dried fruits, prunes and raisins, popcorn, nuts and seeds, beans and peas, raw fruits and vegetables.
- Sprinkle unprocessed bran on food.
- Drink plenty of fluids.
- Drink hot or warm liquids.
- Be as active as possible.
- Follow bowel control plan suggested by your nurse.
- Establish a time for bowel movements. For example, sit on the commode after breakfast daily. After a while the body will adjust and begin regular bowel movements. Bowel movements and constipation are side effects of many medications and the doctor and nurse will provide a bowel regime.
- Take prescribed medications.
When to call hospice:
- No bowel movement in three days
- Persistent cramps or vomiting
- Severe straining on the toilet
- Blood in the stool or around the anal area
|
